One of the most commons questions I receive as a doula is, “Am I really not allowed to eat or drink during labor?” These families go on their hospital tour where they’re told that only ice chips and small sips of clear liquids are allowed. Many first time moms, whose average labor is 24 hours, come to me expressing concern and confusion over this. Can you imagine going that long between meals?
Doctors have heard your concerns.
Research presented at the ANESTHESIOLOGY ® 2015 Annual meeting has shown that “most healthy women can skip the fasting and, in fact, would benefit from eating a light meal during labor.” Christopher Harty, BN, co-author of the study, suggests:
“Physician anesthesiologists and obstetricians should work together to assess each patient individually. Those they determine are at low risk for aspiration can likely eat a light meal during labor. This gives expectant mothers more choices in their birthing experience and prevents them from being calorie deficient, helping to provide energy during labor.”
How did they come to this conclusion?
“Researchers analyzed 385 studies published in 1990 or later that focused on women who gave birth in a hospital. The research suggests that the energy and caloric demands of laboring women are similar to those of marathon runners… Without adequate nutrition, women’s bodies will begin to use fat as an energy source, increasing acidity of the blood in the mother and infant, potentially reducing uterine contractions and leading to longer labor and lower health scores in newborns. Additionally, the studies suggest that fasting can cause emotional stress, potentially moving blood away from the uterus and placenta, lengthening labor and contributing to distress of the fetus. “
It’s time to pack those coolers!
I, too, often refer to labor as a marathon and, as Harty states in his research, require energy and nourishment to continue the long journey ahead. Eating small, light meals throughout labor will do just that. Some great suggestions include fruit, soups, light carbohydrates such as toast or oatmeal, sandwiches, juice and water. Of course, make sure to speak with your doctor at your next prenatal visit about whether eating and drinking in labor is safe for you. Once you get the go-ahead you can start prepping that cooler and planning your labor meal plan!
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
To read the full article on eating during labor, click here.